Return to coaching? No way, Jackson says

LOS ANGELES -- Phil Jackson has said this is the "last stand" for him. He doesn't plan on coaching after this season -- whether the Lakers win the NBA title or not.

And he certainly cannot see himself taking a break, much like Doug Collins did for seven seasons before returning to the sideline to coach Philadelphia.

"No," Jackson said without hestitation.

Why not?

"I think I put in my service time," Jackson said. "I think everything got done with due diligence that I set out to do, especially with this organization and I've coached about as long as I want to coach."

Pressed further, Jackson maintained that he has said numerous times this is his final season, although he never has used those exact words.

User Agreement

Keep it civil and stay on topic. No profanity, vulgarity, racial
slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about
tragedies will be blocked. By posting your comment, you agree to
allow Orange County Register Communications, Inc. the right to
republish your name and comment in additional Register publications
without any notification or payment.